British soul man James Hunter channels the greats Feb. 17 at FTC

James Hunter remains one of the best soul voices alive today — an old soul who seems to be inhabited by the ghosts of Sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson and Otis Redding.

But there’s at least one big difference, of course.

Hunter, just about the best thing about British R&B for the past few years — and one of its freshest talents, despite being such a throwback — has a new album that just came out earlier this month on New York City’s Daptone Records, called “Whatever It Takes.” And, of course, Hunter is able to sing for you from just a few feet away.

Hunter also will play on Sunday, Feb. 18 at Daryl’s House in Pawling, N.Y. Showtime is 7 p.m. Call 845-289-0185.

Born Oct. 2, 1962, in Colchester, Essex, in England, Hunter is no longer the surprise sensation in this country that he was 12 years ago when his Grammy-nominated “People Gonna Talk” first attracted widespread attention back in 2006.

But he continues to make some of the best modern soul music you’re likely to hear, with crisp, original horn lines, plenty of guts and emotion, and as always, an awesome band.

After five previous appearances at Fairfield Theatre Company over the past few years, many of the local people who love this kind of music already know about and have seen Hunter and his ultra-tight, way-hip James Hunter Six. If not, here’s your chance.